Green Livinghttp://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/greenliving/home.aspxA collection of stories about living in an environmentally friendly wayen-usCopyright 2013, WMJX-FMFri, 26 Jul 2013 19:57:46 GMThttp://emmisinteractive.comGreener decorating for your deck and patio<img src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Channels/5435/Thumbnail/green-deck-and-patio-thumb.jpg" align="left" vspace="2" hspace="10"><p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" title="Greener decorating for your deck and patio" src="http://www.wror.com/Pics/HomeImprovement/green-deck-and-patio.jpg" alt="Greener decorating for your deck and patio" width="300" height="211" />(BPT) - Outdoor living spaces cry out for an eco-friendly touch. Whether you're adding a patio, updating a deck or livening up your landscaping, the last thing you want to do is harm the environment. Greener decorating and building practices can help you protect and pay homage to Mother Nature while creating a space where you'll enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.</p>
<p>If you're planning some outdoor decorating or renovating this summer, here are some tips to make your exterior living spaces green and inviting:</p>
<p><strong>Eco-friendly construction materials</strong></p>
<p>For many homeowners, decks and patios are key elements of outdoor living spaces. If you plan to add either this summer, be sure to look for environmentally friendly materials like natural stone or responsibly harvested wood. When choosing wood, look for products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FCS) as having been harvested following sustainable principles that minimize the impact on the environment. If you're building a patio, choose reclaimed brick or stone pavers that have been recycled from other installations. If you can't find reclaimed pavers, look for natural stone that's been quarried locally or bricks that have been locally produced to minimize the energy spent on transporting the products.</p>
<p>The Sierra Club recommends you seek a deck builder that is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified by the U.S. Green Building Council. These builders will have advanced knowledge of eco-friendly practices.</p>
<p><strong>Icing the cake</strong></p>
<p>The accessories - furniture and decor items - that you add to your outdoor environment should be as green as possible, too. Choose patio and deck furniture made from eco-friendly materials, such as recycled plastic (but avoid anything that contains PVC), reclaimed wood or FCS-certified wood. Rehabilitating older iron or wood furniture is also a great way to achieve a singular look while keeping those items out of landfills.</p>
<p>Opt for decor items that minimize their impact on the environment while providing maximum impact on how great your space looks. For example, a wallpaper mural can create an eye-catching focal point and set the tone for your outdoor room. Yet traditional mural painting can be expensive and traditional wallpaper can involve less-than-eco-friendly paste. A removable wallpaper mural creates a striking visual in outdoor spaces without the need for paste or glue. Murals Your Way offers a high-end product that can be moved and reused hundreds of times without losing adhering qualities. Plus, it clings to virtually any flat surface, including glass. You can choose from a myriad of graphic patterns, nature scenes and other images, or have the company produce a custom mural from your original photograph or artwork. Learn more at www.muralsyourway.com.</p>
<p>Continue the eco-friendly theme with lighting for your deck and patio. It's easy to find a variety of solar-powered accent lights online and in home improvement stores across the country. You can even find decorative post caps for your deck railing that are solar-powered. Solar lights create a soft glow at night and provide accent illumination without the expense - and carbon impact - of electric power.</p>
<p>Finally, as you're landscaping, keep sustainability in mind. By choosing plants native to your region, you not only minimize the transportation impact involved in getting the plant from the production point to point-of-sale, you can also ensure they'll require less watering and work to thrive.</p>
<p>Plants native to your environment are pre-disposed to do well in your backyard. Be sure to choose plants that will do well in your particular setting, too. For example, if your backyard is very shady, plant greenery that requires less sun. If your yard gets a lot of sun throughout the day, choose plants that can stand up to hours of sunlight without the need for extensive irrigation. Check with your local agricultural extension to find out what plants will do well in your environment. The U.S. Department of Agriculture provides a free online listing of extensions throughout the country.</p>http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=2013533http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=2013533Fri, 26 Jul 2013 19:58:00 GMTGreenest of the green: Top efficiency-boosting home improvements<img src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Channels/5435/Thumbnail/efficiency-boosting-home-improvement-thumb.jpg" align="left" vspace="2" hspace="10"><p>(BPT) - Forget wondering who's the fairest; when it comes to choosing home improvements that make your home look good - from the curb and to potential buyers - it may make more sense to ask "Who's the greenest of them all." Sustainable home improvements not only help reduce utility costs and boost owner satisfaction with their homes, they also make a house more appealing to potential buyers.</p>
<p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" title="No leak solar powered fresh air skylights and blinds provide natural light and passive ventilation, plus privacy, and are eligible for a 30 percent tax credit." src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/efficiency-boosting-home-improvement.jpg" alt="No leak solar powered fresh air skylights and blinds provide natural light and passive ventilation, plus privacy, and are eligible for a 30 percent tax credit." width="223" height="280" />In fact, buyers are willing to shell out up to 10 percent more for new homes certified green, according to a January real estate report by Harvard University. Return on investment for certain types of green improvements - such as replacing older, less efficient doors and windows - also tends to be high, meaning sellers recoup much of the initial cost of the improvement when they sell the home.</p>
<p>If you're looking for eco-friendly home improvements, these five are among the greenest you can make:</p>
<p><strong>1. Switch to a solar water heater -</strong> Switching to solar power for heating water can be a huge energy and money-saver. Solar hot water systems rely on free energy from the sun to heat a home's hot water. A typical system can use 50 to 80 percent less energy than traditional heating systems, according to Velux America, marketers of solar-powered hot water systems. That reduction can help a typical household trim its annual energy costs by 10 to 15 percent.</p>
<p>"While the initial cost of installing a solar-powered system is often higher than installing a traditional water heater, most homeowners find the energy savings allows them to recoup that cost in just a few years," says Jim Cika of solar system manufacturer Heliodyne. "What's more, homeowners may qualify for a federal tax credit of up to 30 percent of the cost to buy and install a residential solar water heating system." Visit www.solar.veluxusa.com to learn more about solar water heating.</p>
<p><strong>2. Eliminate incandescents -</strong> You'll have to do it soon anyway, so it may pay to start the process now and phase incandescent light bulbs from your home. Federal law banning incandescent light bulbs means that by the end of 2014, you probably won't be able to find one of the old-fashioned power-guzzlers on store shelves anymore. Instead, more energy-efficient bulbs such as LEDs and compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) will dominate the marketplace.</p>
<p><strong>3. Add or upgrade a skylight -</strong> Installing a skylight, or replacing an older model skylight with a new Energy Star-qualified one, can help reduce utility costs. The natural light from a skylight can help reduce the need for artificial light sources, thereby paring down electricity costs. When you pair no leak solar-powered fresh air skylights equipped with automatic rain sensors and efficiency-enhancing, energy saving accessories like designer solar powered blinds, you gain a new source of fresh air while improving energy efficiency by up to 37 percent, according to skylight manufacturer Velux.</p>
<p>And, in addition to long-term savings, the cost of solar powered skylights and blinds, as well as installation costs, are eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit as a green home improvement. For a tax calculator that will show you the tax benefits of new or replacement skylights for your home visit www.veluxusa.com.</p>
<p>And, if you would like to see exactly how skylights would look in your home, there's an app there that allows you to take pictures inside your home and superimpose skylights and blinds on the image of your ceiling.</p>
<p>Sunlight entering the home through a skylight can help reduce winter heating bills. EnergyStar.gov says installing an EnergyStar-qualified skylight, windows and doors can trim a home energy bill by 7 to 15 percent over non-qualified products. Visit www.EnergyStar.gov to learn more.</p>
<p><strong>4. Replace an old HVAC system -</strong> In the typical American home, up to half of total energy consumption goes to heat and cool the house, EnergyStar says. Replacing old, inefficient heating, ventilation and cooling systems with newer, more efficient models can dramatically reduce a home's heating and cooling costs.</p>
<p><strong>5. Upgrade old windows and doors -</strong> A home can lose a tremendous amount of air - hot in the winter, cool in the summer - through poorly sealed doors and windows. Older units, obviously, tend to be less energy efficient than newer ones. Upgrading from drafty windows and doors to more air-tight models can result in significant savings on your heating and cooling costs.</p>
<p>What's more, replacing windows and doors are among the home improvements that deliver significant ROI at the time of resale. Replacing old windows with new vinyl ones can recoup more than 71 percent of the cost when you sell; 73 percent for wooden replacement windows, according to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report. And installing a new front door earns you back nearly 66 percent for a fiberglass door and a whopping 85.6 percent for a steel door.</p>http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1931266http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1931266Mon, 08 Apr 2013 19:21:00 GMTSimple ways to save energy at home in just minutes<img src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Channels/5435/Thumbnail/save-energy-thumb.jpg" align="left" vspace="2" hspace="10"><p><img style="margin: 10px; float: right;" title="Simple ways to save energy at home in just minutes" src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/save-energy.jpg" alt="Simple ways to save energy at home in just minutes" width="300" height="200" />(BPT) - Home is where the heart is. But it's also a place where families can be more conscious of their energy use. While conserving energy helps save the planet, it also helps homeowners save money.</p>
<p>According to Christine Ackerson, sustainability manager at LG Electronics USA, by adopting a green mindset and taking a few simple steps to be more eco-friendly, you'll help preserve our planet's resources and your budget.</p>
<p><strong>Reduce, reuse and e-cycle</strong></p>
<p>Phantom energy waste - the amount of energy plugged-in appliances and other electronics draw even when turned off - can add up. You can reduce phantom energy drain by unplugging appliances you don't frequently use or installing power strips that can easily be turned off. -Remember to unplug your cell phone charger when not in use. And use motion sensing exterior lighting and timers so that electronics such as space heaters and fans don't run longer than intended.</p>
<p>The average consumer household has about 24 electronic products, according to the Consumer Electronics Association, and old or outdated electronics represent one of the fastest growing waste streams in the world. Recycling electronic waste, or e-waste, such as cell phones, televisions and computers can save energy and scarce resources by reducing the amount of raw materials extracted from the earth, as well as preventing harmful materials from ending up in the environment. For example, recycling one million laptops saves the energy equivalent of the electricity used by 3,657 homes each year in the U.S., according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.</p>
<p>Recycling your old electronics is easy, and there are a number of resources to help. Manufacturers and retailers often offer recycling services or take-back programs - LG offers an online search tool at www.lgerecycling program.com to find free drop off locations near you. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency also offers online resources for safe e-waste disposal, or you can ask your local municipality if they offer e-waste collection programs.</p>
<p><strong>The waste, the washer and the wardrobe</strong></p>
<p>Doing laundry is a household necessity. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average household does 392 loads of laundry each year; that translates to 7.5 loads per week. Upgrading an old, inefficient washer can not only lead to water and energy savings, it can also mean cleaner clothes.</p>
<p>Energy Star-qualified washers use about 20 percent less energy and 35 percent less water than standard washers. Larger-capacity machines save energy because you can wash more clothes in fewer loads. One new "mega-capacity" washer from LG has the largest capacity in the industry at 5.1 cubic feet. Plus, it features a special turbo wash technology that saves up to 20 minutes per load.</p>
<p>The "mega-capacity" washer also earned the "Energy Star Most Efficient" designation in 2013. This new program recognizes the most efficient products on the market.-Washers that earn this distinction can save consumers the equivalent of at least 68,000 bottles of water a year.</p>
<p><strong>A bright idea: LED bulbs</strong></p>
<p>When available, use natural lighting to light your home. On dark days and after sunset, light your home only in the areas you are using. When it comes to lights, one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to go green is to switch to LED light bulbs. They're the most energy efficient option and last 10 times longer than compact fluorescent bulbs. A cool lighting option, LED bulbs do not use mercury, so you're not putting extra toxins into landfills when the bulb does expire.</p>
<p>When shopping for new bulbs, look for the Energy Star label. If just one light bulb in every American home was replaced with an Energy Star bulb, we would save about $600 million in annual energy costs, plus save enough energy to light 3 million homes for an entire year!</p>
<p><strong>Go autopilot to heat and cool your home</strong></p>
<p>The energy used to heat and cool your home throughout the year can mean big utility bills. Adopt a green mindset and change the temperature just a few degrees and the savings will come naturally. Try adjusting your thermostat three or more degrees - you might not even feel a difference. During periods when you're not in the home, adjust it even more. According to the Department of Energy, you can save as much as 1 percent for each degree by turning your thermostat back if the setback period is eight hours long.</p>
<p>An easy way to control your home's temperature is to get a programmable thermostat. Put your home's heating and cooling on autopilot by programming temperature settings for each day of the week. Depending on whether you're home or away at work, you can set your seasonal preferences so your home maximizes energy conservation while keeping temperatures comfortable. Adopt these ideas and you can make a difference in helping to address climate change and protect the planet, and also save money. Take the "Change the World, Start with Energy Star Pledge" at the Energy Star website, <a href="http://www.energystar.gov" target="_blank">www.energystar.gov</a>, and make a promise to make simple behavioral changes to make your home more energy efficient and preserve resources for future generations.</p>http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1925638http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1925638Mon, 01 Apr 2013 20:48:00 GMTDon't get caught in the cold: Know the facts about winter gas mileage<img src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Channels/5435/Thumbnail/caught-cold-thumb.jpg" align="left" vspace="2" hspace="10"><p>(BPT) - Winter and colder temperatures are notorious for creating difficult driving conditions that can place strain on drivers and their vehicles. And as the temperature drops this winter, so will your gas mileage.</p>
<p>Colder temperatures mean cold oil, tires and cold air in the carburetor - all factors that reduce gas mileage. With higher prices lingering at the gas pumps, a few fuel-saving tips can help protect your miles per gallon (MPG) this winter.</p>
<p><strong>Warm your car up the right way</strong></p>
<p>Many people believe the myth that you must warm your car up in the winter. The truth is that idling your car actually destroys your MPG and isn't necessary.</p>
<p>Modern cars don't require a warm-up, even when the temperatures drop below zero, according to AAA. Modern engines, those built since about 1990, have fuel injection systems rather than carburetors and need no more than 10 to 30 seconds to get oil moving through the engine properly.</p>
<p>Auto experts recommend driving moderately in cold weather to allow the engine and other systems to warm up slowly and reduce wear and tear. So even though many people choose to warm up their car in the winter for personal comfort or to defrost windows, idling a vehicle for more than even one minute is simply wasting gas.</p>
<p><strong><img style="float: right; margin: 10px 15px;" title="Know the facts about winter gas mileage" src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/caught-cold.jpg" alt="Know the facts about winter gas mileage" width="300" height="218" />Get your car winter ready</strong></p>
<p>From changing the oil to checking the tire pressure on a regular basis, improving your winter gas mileage is easier than you might think.</p>
<p>"Your vehicle's motor oil becomes thicker in colder temperatures, which adds stress to the engine," says Jim Rossbach, CHS director of technical services and quality. "Try a thinner grade of oil to keep your engine running smoothly in the colder months." Rossbach recommends using a high-performing synthetic oil like Cenex Maxtron, which is designed to perform well in low temperatures and improve fuel economy.</p>
<p>Proper tire inflation can also improve fuel economy by up to 3 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. It is important to check tire pressure several times throughout the winter when colder temperature can reduce tire pressure at a rate of one pound per square inch (PSI) for every 10 degrees change.</p>
<p><strong>Lighten the load</strong></p>
<p>Extra weight from cargo or snow also reduces fuel efficiency. Cleaning out your car and clearing off heavy snow is an easy way to get better gas mileage.</p>
<p>In the past, carrying sandbags in the trunk was a common method for gaining more traction and helping rear-wheel drive cars perform better on snow and ice. Today, most cars are front-wheel drive with the engine over the front wheels, creating that same grip. Carrying extra weight does not add traction on snow and ice, but simply lowers your fuel economy.</p>
<p>For more gas-saving tips and to learn how you can nominate someone for a free tank of gas, visit www.tanksofthanks.com.</p>http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1842340http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1842340Mon, 24 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT'Green' ideas for winter-white weddings<img src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Channels/5435/Thumbnail/winter-weddings-thumb.jpg" align="left" vspace="2" hspace="10"><p>(BPT) - You're ready to say your "I do's" in front of your family and friends. Planning a memorable celebration of your commitment to each other, however, doesn't mean you have to compromise on your commitment to the environment. It's possible to create the wedding of your dreams and stay "green," even in the cold, white months of winter.</p>
<p>December is the most popular month for proposals, and the second-most popular cool season month for weddings (after October). Environmentally correct weddings are a hot trend, according to <a href="http://www.theknot.com" target="_blank">TheKnot.com</a>, a leading wedding-planning website.</p>
<p>If your vision of the perfect wedding marries eco-friendly green with winter white, here are some tips and ideas to help you turn your vision into reality:</p>
<p><strong>Friendly feasting</strong></p>
<p>Great food is an essential part of any wedding, whether you're serving a sit-down dinner or just hors d'oeuvres and cocktails. When you're planning your menu, however, keep in mind how the foods you choose may impact the environment. For example, is that fish entree net caught, line caught or farmed?</p>
<p>A dish's environmental impact depends on several factors, including how the product was raised and harvested, how it was transported and how far it had to travel from point of origin to plate. By choosing locally grown products or those grown and harvested using sustainable practices, you can reduce your wedding feast's impact on the environment.</p>
<p><strong><img style="float: right; margin: 10px 15px;" title="'Green' ideas for winter-white weddings" src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/winter-weddings.jpg" alt="'Green' ideas for winter-white weddings" width="300" height="244" />Reuse, recycle and revel</strong></p>
<p>Brides in bygone generations once gladly wore their mother's wedding dress, but the practice fell out of vogue as more brides wanted their own unique look for their wedding day. But the green movement has breathed new life into the practice, since reusing and recycling eliminates the need to consume materials and energy making something new. More brides are finding that recycling a wedding dress has other advantages too. It's possible to achieve a great vintage look with a used wedding dress - whether it's one handed down from your mother or one you found in a second-hand store. A new gown can cost thousands of dollars, while a repurposed dress can be had much more cheaply.</p>
<p><strong>Wedding favor wonders</strong></p>
<p>Sure it's a cool idea and the groomsmen will likely use theirs often, but just how environmentally correct is that custom-imprinted beer cozy? Wedding favors are a way of thanking guests for sharing in your special day, but many popular items are made from less-than-eco-friendly materials.</p>
<p>To green your wedding, consider favors that are useful and organic, such as organic baking mixes or spice mixes. You can find a plethora of these great-tasting, green-minded options from purveyors like Simply Organic. They even have holiday-appropriate varieties like Cranberry Bread and Pumpkin Cake at www.simplyorganic.com. Dress up favors with decorative netting and ribbons, and you have a unique favor that's good for guests and the environment, too.</p>
<p>Greener invitations</p>
<p>The invitation is often the first impression guests will have of your wedding. While every bride wants invitations that will wow guests, keep in mind the costs - both monetary and environmental - of all that paper. Many eco-minded brides are switching to invitations made with recycled paper or, better yet, electronic invitations.</p>
<p>No raw materials are consumed to create e-vites, and what's more, you can find online services that not only help you create an e-vite, but send it and monitor responses all online. Using such a service can help you keep better track of RSVPs.</p>
<p>There is the option of sending invitations printed on recycled paper with flower seeds imbedded in the paper. Your guests can plant the invitation in their garden, and remember your special occasion every time they see the beautiful flowers growing. Visit www.greenfieldpaper.com to learn more.</p>
<p><strong>The little things that mean a lot</strong></p>
<p>Some other steps that may seem small - like choosing locally grown, in-season flowers rather than out-of-season ones that must be imported - can also make a big difference in how your wedding impacts the environment. Whether you opt to replace cut bouquets and centerpieces with artificial ones that can be reused, or choose acoustic music that requires no electricity to keep guests dancing, it's possible to find green options for almost every aspect of your wedding.</p>http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1842314http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1842314Tue, 01 Jan 2013 05:01:00 GMTGas-saving holiday travel tips<img src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Channels/5435/Thumbnail/gas-saving-thumb.jpg" align="left" vspace="2" hspace="10"><p>(BPT) - The holidays are for giving, but with all the driving around for shopping, parties and family events, you may end up giving more at the gas station due to Grinch-like fuel costs. Holiday jeer can quickly become holiday cheer, though, by simply practicing some gas-saving tips.</p>
<p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" title="Gas-saving holiday travel tips" src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/gas-saving.jpg" alt="Gas-saving holiday travel tips" width="300" height="200" />"There are all sorts of ways to make sure you're getting the best fuel efficiency out of your car," says Andrew Briggs, director of product planning for Yokohama Tire Corporation, makers of a variety of truck and car tires. "One of the best - and easiest - is to properly inflate your tires. Tires that are under-inflated by eight pounds per square inch (psi) can reduce vehicle fuel economy by as much as 2 percent. By keeping the right air pressure, you can begin cutting down on your annual fuel costs."</p>
<p>Briggs says that even though tires are engineering marvels affecting everything from braking distance and accident avoidance to ride comfort and fuel efficiency, they are easily overlooked - especially when it comes to checking tire pressure. "It's natural to forget, but for the best gas-saving results, checking your tire pressure should become a monthly routine. It only takes five minutes. If you're not doing it once a month, chances are you're driving on under-inflated tires and burning money."</p>
<p>Another way to save at the pump is to drive on low rolling resistance tires, which improve fuel efficiency because they generate less internal heat as the tire rolls down the road. "With low rolling resistance tires, less energy is wasted," says Briggs. "That's a big benefit for budget-conscious consumers who want to maximize their mileage. Studies show driving on low rolling resistance tires alone like Yokohama's AVID Ascend can save hundreds of dollars over the life of the tire on gas. The tire has Yokohama's unique orange oil technology, which uses the oil from orange peels to create a special compound that makes an unusually strong bond between synthetic and natural rubber. The result is a tire that offers low rolling resistance. It makes the Ascend about 20 percent more energy efficient than standard touring tires."</p>
<p>Briggs says there are many ways your tires and vehicles can help save money for the holidays, including driving smarter. Here are some of his money-saving tips:</p>
<p>* Keep your tires properly inflated. Once a month, when the tires are cold (at least three to four hours after the vehicle has been driven), check tire pressure with a reliable tire gauge. Be sure the valve stems have a plastic or metal cap to keep dirt out and seal against leakage.</p>
<p>* Slow down. All vehicles lose fuel economy at speeds above 55 mph. Driving 55 mph instead of 75 mph can reduce fuel cost by 25 percent. Driving 65 mph instead of 75 mph can save 13 percent.</p>
<p>* Keep your car tuned up according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule to keep all systems in good working order.</p>
<p>* Turn off your engine if you're stopped for more than a couple of minutes. Fuel efficiency savings of up to 19 percent are possible by not letting your engine idle too long while stationary.</p>
<p>* Accelerating less from a stop and slowing moderately can increase fuel efficiency by more than 30 percent.</p>
<p>* Tire alignment should be checked once a year. Misaligned tires can cause the car to scrub, which lowers mileage and causes unnecessary tire wear.</p>
<p>For additional tire care and safety tips, visit www.yokohamatire.com or www.rma.org.</p>http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1842309http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1842309Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:41:00 GMTCool weather crops are hot this fall<img src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Channels/5435/Thumbnail/Cool%20weather%20crops%20are%20hot%20this%20fall%20THUMB.jpg" align="left" vspace="2" hspace="10"><p>(ARA) - The growing season isn't over with the arrival of cool weather. Until the first hard frost hits, you have plenty of time to plant, pick and plate cool-weather crops. You'll save yourself some money in the grocery's produce aisle too.</p>
<p><img style="float: right; margin: 15px;" title="Cool weather crops are hot this fall" src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Cool%20weather%20crops%20are%20hot%20this%20fall.jpg" alt="Cool weather crops are hot this fall" width="300" height="200" />Fall is a great time for gardening thanks to cooler, milder temperatures, a decrease in garden pests, and moister, well-draining soil. These conditions make it ideal for crops that prefer cooler weather. Some vegetables taste even better when nipped by light frost.</p>
<p>July through August is the optimum time for planting cool crops, so don't delay. Planting in summer ensures crops will have time to mature before the first freeze in fall. Choose varieties that mature quickly; you can find the days to maturity on plant tags. Starting with transplants, rather than seed, will help make the growing process much easier.</p>
<p>If you've been diligent in your garden all summer, you won't have much work to do preparing it for cool crops. If your garden got a little ahead of your efforts, don't worry. It won't take long to get it into tip-top shape for a second season of planting. Just follow these simple steps:</p>
<p><strong>Tidy up</strong></p>
<p><img style="float: left; margin: 15px;" title="Cool weather crops are hot this fall" src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Cool%20weather%20crops%20are%20hot%20this%20fall%202.jpg" alt="Cool weather crops are hot this fall" width="300" height="214" />Remove spent plants, like early planted beans, cucumbers or lettuce, since they're pretty much done for the season and can harbor pests. Clear away holes left from pulling plants, and get rid of weeds before they go to seed. Throw away anything distressed and compost the rest.</p>
<p>Discard any fallen fruits, rotting produce can attract pests. Take note of where everything was planted so you can be sure to rotate crops.</p>
<p><strong>Set up the soil</strong></p>
<p>Freshen garden soil by removing the existing layer of mulch and replace it. Straw makes an excellent cover because it's easily scattered, it's also a favorite home for spiders that will help control insect pests in your garden. You can also use a layer of shredded leaves for mulch.</p>
<p>Loosen compacted soil and fluff it up with a garden fork. Major tilling isn't necessary; just move soil enough to allow new plant roots to settle in and let water get through. Test soil (you can buy a testing kit at most garden retailers) to see if it needs help. Add amendments, if needed. At the very least, work some compost in where your plants will be growing.</p>
<p>If you'll be using a cold frame or hoop, set it up early so that it'll be ready to go when you need it and you won't risk damaging plants and roots once they begin to grow.</p>
<p><strong>Pick your plants</strong></p>
<p>Starting with transplants will buy you lots of time. Since plants are six weeks or older when you put them in the ground, you'll harvest sooner than if you start from seed. Look for transplants from an established grower, like Bonnie Plants. Sold in biodegradable, environmentally friendly pots, you'll find fall varieties selected for your geographic region at most local garden retailers.</p>
<p>Here are some top crops for fall planting:</p>
<ul>
<li>Top bunch collards - This hybrid is heavy yielding, early maturing, and more uniform than traditional varieties. They grow best in full sun, tolerate partial shade, are rich in vitamins and sweetened by frost. Space transplants 36 inches apart.</li>
<li>Spinach - A cool-weather vegetable related to beets and Swiss chard, Bonnie's Spinach is a fast-growing plant, yielding many leaves in a short time in fall. Although spinach prefers full sun, it's one of the few vegetables that produce a respectable harvest in partial shade.</li>
<li>Winterbor kale - This nutritious leafy green is a vigorous producer that endures winter easily. Cut the outer leaves so that the center can continue growing. Space transplants 12 inches apart.</li>
<li>Early dividend broccoli - Popular, productive and easy to grow, this broccoli is high in fiber and calcium. Space transplants 18 inches apart.</li>
<li>Mustard greens - Offering spicy hot leaves, this is a very fast-growing, nutritious vegetable, and always tastes sweeter when nipped by frost. Space plants 12 inches apart.</li>
<li>Bonnie hybrid cabbage - Grows large, round, blue-green heads. Cabbage is especially high in beta-carotene, vitamin C, K and fiber.</li>
</ul>
<p>Get started now to ensure your fall harvest is healthy, hefty and fulfilling. With preparation, the right plants and some diligence, you can bet on fresh, low-cost produce well into fall.</p>http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1749423http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1749423Wed, 01 Aug 2012 19:44:00 GMTHow to be energy efficient and save money as the heat rises<img src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Channels/5435/Thumbnail/Energy-Efficient-thumb-001.jpg" align="left" vspace="2" hspace="10"><div>(ARA) - With temperatures - and therefore, electric bills - rising, American homeowners are looking for the most effective ways to make the biggest dent in their energy bills, but many may be overlooking some of the most important energy-saving strategies.<br /><br />Homeowners are more likely to do simple things around the house to conserve energy, according to the Lennox Home Energy Report Card Survey. These steps include changing air filters in a heating and cooling system on a regular basis, swapping out incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs, and turning down the temperature setting on a hot water heater.<br /><br /><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0pt none;" title="How to be energy efficient and save money as the heat rises" src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Used/Energy-Efficient-large.jpg" alt="How to be energy efficient and save money as the heat rises" width="300" height="254" />While these activities can certainly help save energy and money, Brandon Chase, an energy efficiency expert and product development manager at home heating and cooling manufacturer Lennox, says homeowners need to take a close look at how they heat and cool their homes if they truly want to make a substantial dent in their energy bills.<br /><br />"More than half of a home's energy costs comes from heating and cooling the house," says Chase. "If you can heat or cool your home more efficiently, then you'll be well on your way to seeing lower energy bills."<br /><br />The first step is to have a professional evaluate the age, performance and efficiency of your heating and cooling system to see if it needs to be repaired or replaced. The Lennox survey found that only about half of homeowners have taken the proactive step of replacing an old, inefficient heating and cooling system with a new, energy-efficient model, yet doing so can dramatically help conserve energy and reduce utility bills.<br /><br />Chase says if the air conditioning system is more than 10 years old or the furnace is more than 15 years old - the average life spans of cooling and heating units - then it's time to consider replacing the aging system with a new ENERGY STAR-qualified system.<br /><strong><br />New energy-saving technologies</strong><br /><br />Significant advances in energy-efficient technologies have recently enabled homeowners to save hundreds of dollars a year on their energy bills. One example is the SunSource Home Energy System - a solar-powered central heating and cooling system - that uses energy from the sun, collected from roof-mounted solar modules, to reduce the electricity consumed by a high-efficiency heat pump or air conditioner.<br /><br />When the SunSource heating and cooling system is not in use, the solar energy can operate other appliances and electronics. Any excess energy that's not needed is sent back to the utility company, possibly entitling the homeowner to a credit on their utility bill.<br /><strong><br />Other energy-efficient ways to cool and heat a home</strong><br /><br />In addition to replacing an old heating and cooling system, Chase says there are a number of other ways to make heating and cooling your home more efficient. He offers the following energy-saving advice:<br /><br />- Seal cracks around windows and doors with caulk or weather stripping to prevent indoor air from escaping.<br /><br />- Keep blinds, shades and curtains closed during the day in the summer to block sunlight from entering the home, but open them up in the winter to naturally warm the house.<br /><br />- Install a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature at certain times of the day, automatically regulating the temperature when you're away.<br /><br />- Add extra insulation to the attic, which will help prevent your home's heating and cooling system from having to work harder to regulate the indoor temperature.<br /><br />For more energy-saving tips, visit www.lennox.com.</div>http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1462081http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1462081Mon, 25 Jul 2011 17:30:00 GMTSave money with these energy efficiency tips<img src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Channels/5435/Thumbnail/energy-efficiency-tips-thumb.jpg" align="left" vspace="2" hspace="10"><p><img style="float: right; margin: 15px; border: 0pt none;" title="Save money with these energy efficiency tips" alt="Save money with these energy efficiency tips" src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/energy-efficiency-tips.jpg" width="300" height="200" />(ARA) - Saving money is on everyone's mind this winter season. Between the holiday expenses, colder temperatures and tight budgets, finding ways to reduce costs can be a bit of a challenge. If you're looking for ways to save, look at your home, and see if you can improve on your energy efficiency - thereby keeping a few extra dollars in your pocket.<br /><br /><b>* Program the temperature.</b> You already know that the lower you set the thermometer in winter, the less your furnace will work. Having the temperature set in the low 60s when out and about makes perfect sense. But when you are home, setting the temps a bit higher will help keep you comfortable. Instead of continuously running back and forth to the thermostat to constantly keep readjusting the temperature, install a programmable thermostat and preset the times you want the temps lower or higher.<br /><br /><b>* Clean your heating and cooling system.</b> To help your furnace operate better, hire a qualified company to clean the ducts, blower, cooling coils and heat exchanger. To find someone certified contact <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nadca.com/">NADCA - the HVAC Inspection, Maintenance and Restoration Association</a>. NADCA recommends homeowners clean their heating and cooling systems annually, because dust and pollen build up on your ducts, and then recirculate through your home. This buildup of dirt prevents your furnace from efficiently running, making it work harder and run longer to maintain the temperature you set.<br /><br />"A clean heating and cooling system helps to increase the airflow through your furnace, which in turn helps to make your home more comfortable," says Matt Mongiello, president of NADCA. "And when you combine a clean system with controlled temperatures, you'll notice the savings on your utility bills."<br /><br /><b>* Wash clothes in cold water.</b> Every household processes about 400 loads of laundry per year, according to the California Energy Commission , making your washer one of the biggest water consuming products in your house. To help save on energy, wash your clothes only in cold water so you don't have to spend money using the water heater. And make sure you only process full loads to help conserve the number of loads you run and water you use. Additional energy savings can be found by line drying your clothes, or running them through the dryer for half the time, and then air drying them the rest of the time. Across most of the country, humidity levels tend to be lower during the winter months, which helps to speed up the clothes drying process.<br /><br /><b>* Unplug appliances.</b> The amount of electricity consumed in your home often can easily be reduced by just unplugging and turning off items. According to Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratories, 5 percent of residential energy use in the U.S. is used when appliances are in the off position. Consider unplugging smaller appliances such as your microwave, cellphone charger, coffee maker and desktop computer which can continue to consume energy, even when you're not using them. If the appliance has a clock, or electrical display of some sort, electricity is needed to keep those items illuminated. If it's a hassle to unplug these items after each and every use, consider putting them on a power strip, so you can quickly and easily flip the switch on and off when you need to use the appliances.<br /><br />Tightening down on your energy usage can help you save a couple of dollars here and there, and also keep you more comfortable in your home. So sit back and relax in your home and enjoy the winter season.</p>http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1648441http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1648441Wed, 01 Feb 2012 20:33:00 GMTSmart gardening: water and weed wisely<img src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Channels/5435/Thumbnail/plant-thumb.jpg" align="left" vspace="2" hspace="10"><div>(ARA) - Part of the joy in planting beautiful flower beds and produce gardens each summer is in daydreaming about the outcome. Summer garden daydreams involve the anticipation of the blooming daisies, the splash of color added by waves of petunias, biting into juicy tomatoes and cooking up crisp green peppers or yellow squash.<br /><br />Gardening dreams and plans, however, don't generally include hours of watering, wilted plants or those pesky weeds. These unwanted guests aren't just unattractive, but can also rob flowers and vegetables of water, nutrients and sunlight, therefore restricting the growth of prized plants.<img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0pt none;" title="Smart gardening: water and weed wisely" alt="Smart gardening: water and weed wisely" src="http://www.magic1067.com/Pics/Lifestyles/Outdoor Living/plant-large.jpg" height="450" width="300" /><br /><br />Watering and controlling weeds in your containers and gardens need not be time-consuming or difficult. Practicing smart weed control and wise watering measures should be a simple part of garden care and can be easily incorporated into routines.<br /><br />- Soil to build on - Amend before planting and improve growth and moisture control by mixing in a layer of rich compost from Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Garden Soil. This increases the water holding ability and water absorption of your soil. For container gardening, use Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix to help hold water longer.&nbsp; Also, using a large pot helps keep plants from becoming root-bound quickly and thirsting for water. The more room plants have to grow, the less watering needed.<br /><br />- Mulch is a must - A two or three inch layer of mulch on the garden will break down over time and add to the nutritional make-up of soil. Layering a hardwood mulch in flowerbeds or container gardens will accomplish three goals: helping to prevent weeds from getting established; giving beds and containers a finished look and holding moisture in the soil. Additionally, the Water Smart technology used in this product has a water channeling property. This prevents over-watering in flower and produce beds by channeling water directly to the roots, reducing the amount of water needed by up to 30 percent compared to ordinary mulches.<br /><br />- Water wisely - Gardens and containers do require watering to thrive when rainfall is insufficient or infrequent, but a few watering tips can conserve time, water and help make the most of the rainfall that Mother Nature does provide. To maximize the effectiveness of watering, take care to water deeply by wetting soil thoroughly. Use a moisture meter to ensure that roots have received enough moisture. Make watering a regular routine, aiming at the base of the plant. To water effectively, do it:<br /><br />- After planting<br />- Before leaves wilt<br />- In the morning<br /><br />- Feed and protect - With help from Miracle-Gro, your plants can grow bigger and more beautiful, without weeds to compete for space, nutrients and water. Combine feeding with weed prevention by using Miracle-Gro Shake 'n Feed All Purpose Plant Food Plus Weed Preventer. One application feeds plants and prevents weeds from appearing for up to three months. It's an easy way to keep those pesky weeds from popping up.<br /><br />- Spot treatment - Don't get carried away with weeds - it is not easy to catch every weed before it pops up. For only a handful of weeds, simply use a spot treatment or dig the culprit out. Roundup Weed &amp; Grass Killer Sure Shot Foam is ideal for tough-to-reach weeds found in flower beds and vegetable gardens. It's also great to use as an edger along driveways, walkways or fences or to spot treat weeds in patios, gravel or mulch, around trees and shrubs and other hard-to-reach areas.<br /><br />Few gardeners enjoy pulling weeds or constant watering, so taking the measures to prevent weeds and make the most of watering early in the summer growing season is a great way to avoid backbreaking work later on. Soon your dreams will become reality as you enjoy fresh cut flowers on your kitchen table and corn on the cob dripping with butter on your dinner plate.</div>http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1514449http://www.magic1067.com/Lifestyles/GreenLiving/Story.aspx?ID=1514449Mon, 08 Aug 2011 17:31:00 GMT